On behalf of the Government and people of Australia I extend to the President and people of the Republic of Indonesia our condolences on the passing of former Indonesian President Soeharto.
Former President Soeharto was one of the longest-serving heads of government of the last century and an influential figure in Australia's region and beyond.
He presided over the government of what is the world's fourth most populous country and its largest Islamic nation.
Until the catastrophic Asian financial crisis of 1997, he oversaw a period of significant economic growth and modernisation at a time when Indonesia faced fundamental political, social and economic challenges.
He was influential in the successful development of the Association of South-east Asian Nations (ASEAN) and of APEC.
The former president was also a controversial figure in respect of human rights and East Timor and many have disagreed with his approach. Now the world's third largest democracy, Indonesia is a close friend and neighbour with which Australia shares vital political and security interests.
Indonesia's success as a modern democracy is a major interest not just to Australia, but to our region and the world.
Media contact: 02 6277 7744